Rainbowfish - Australian

Other Breeds

Keeshond   |   Palomino   |   Pig – Pot Bellied   |  

Alternative Name

Murray River Rainbowfish, Australian Rainbow, Crimson Spotted Rainbowfish, Murray Darling Sunfish, Pink Ear Scientific Name: Melanotaenia fluviatilis

Basic Info

The Rainbow Fish is a beautiful fish. It has a body color ranging from olive, to green, brown or even turquoise on its back and upper half. This color fades to white on the lower part of the body. There is a thin, red colored stripe between each horizontal scale row. Rainbow Fish will not reach their full color, until they reach maturity. At maturity, the Rainbow Fish will be three to four inches in size. The fins on a Rainbow Fish will be clear to red colored, and males will have some black spots on their dorsal, anal and pelvic fins.

Health

The Rainbow Fish is relatively easy to care for. They can withstand a wide range of temperatures, but should be kept in water in a range between 76 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH level of their water should be neutral, with a range around seven. Rainbow Fish enjoy eating live fish, bloodworms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. They will also eat frozen, freeze dried and flake foods. Breeding The Rainbow Fish can be bred in aquariums, but it is difficult. Spawning should occur sometime between October and January. Roughly 100 to 150 eggs will be produced. These eggs will stick to plant life and will hatch after roughly one week. The color of the males will become brighter and may change prior to breeding.

Habitat

Fresh water fish - Rainbow Fish are found from South Australia to Queensland.

Behavior

The Australian Rainbow Fish, also known as the "Rainbow Fish", is a beautiful fish. It is highly active, very colorful and rather hardy. These traits make the Rainbow Fish a desired fish among beginning and experienced hobbyists. The Rainbow Fish is a peaceful fish. It will not bother other similarly sized fish. It is, however, very active. The Rainbow Fish should not be kept with slower, less active fish, as they may become irritated by the Rainbow Fish's constant motion. Rainbow Fish should be kept in large tanks with a moderate rock and plant decor. Live plants will be much better for the Rainbow Fish.

Origin

Australia

History

The Rainbow Fish is originally from Australia. They were first captured in the 1870s in the Murrumbidgee River in New South Whales.

Common Foods

N/A